Funeral services for John William Potter, 88, of Greenville will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 16, 2020 at First Baptist Church, Greenville. He passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at his home. Arrangements are under the direction of Boone Funeral Home, Greenville.
Mr. Potter was born on March 27, 1932 in James Crossing, MS to the late Luther Thaddeus and Thelma (Hughes) Potter. He graduated from Riverside High School and attended The University of Mississippi. In 1951 he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served 4 years on the U.S.S. Rockwall. After serving in the Navy, he returned home and married Bobbie Faye Haney of Drew, MS.
In 1955 John William started his farming career. In 1969, he built the first catfish ponds along with his partners, John Dillard and Julian Potter. He was a cofounder and served on the Board of Delta Pride Catfish and served on the Board of Delta Western Feed Mill.
John William was a member of Avon Methodist Church. He was an avid golfer at the Greenville Golf and Country Club. He also enjoyed hunting at Caulk Island in his early years and later became a member of Black Bayou Hunting Club.
John William is survived by his wife of 66 years, Bobbie Faye Haney Potter; three daughters, Gail Potter Bruton (Jimmy) of Estill, MS, Dixie Potter Virden (Joe) of Highlands Ranch, CO, Lynda Potter Skates (Bill) of Greenville; 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Dorothy Lee was a very appreciated caregiver for J.W. Potter.
There will be a visitation from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the church on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project or a charity of choice.
Pallbearers will be Barrett Bruton, John Thomas Bruton, Luke Virden, Zach Skates, Jimmy Bruton, Bill Skates, and Joe Virden.